'Hairspray' to open on Thursday

Tyler Civic Theatre Center begins its season on Thursday with the feel-good musical “Hairspray.”

Against the backdrop of a 1960s’ teenage dance show, “Hairspray,” deals with topics such as race relations, body image, ambition and changing American society. In 2003, the musical won eight Tony Awards.

The production will feature Emily Hinkie as the big-voiced and dance happy Tracy Turnblad; Roger Pharr as her mother, Edna (a part traditionally played by a man); and Walker Delk as Link Larkin.

Other principal roles are being played by Emily Rohrman, Bryant Huey, Zach Hughes, Amanda Spangler, Sarah Smith and Stephen Rainwater

Justin Purser and Rainwater are the directors, Grace Johnson is the musical director and Shelby Anderson is the choreographer.